Apache Plume

           ~ In memory of Julie Brokken (1959-2020)

Gina Marselle © January 2, 2021

The desert is a brutal abode

Drought-wise

Too hot during summer solstice

Too cold during winter solstice

Empty most moments

Sometimes only bees hear the echo of wing flap

So how does an apache plume awaken each morning

Stretching for the peaceful, cerulean expanse

Water-wise

Inspiring purple butterflies

Cooling quails

Well past twilight

Content to settle in the sandy, low desert

Flowering yellow-white petals

Whispering hope  

This poem is inspired by Julie Brokken’s photograph: Twilight Apache Plume. It is copyright material, and you may view the image on her website: http://www.juliebrokken.com/botanical-beings.html. Please scroll down about halfway to view the image. As well as the poem, I included a watercolor I did of the photograph. This poem and watercolor are in memory of New Mexico artist and poet Julie Brokken (1959-2020).